Converse

Converse, the classic American shoe company, has been making shoes since 1908. Opened by Marquis Mills Converse, the company got its start by making winterized rubber-soled footwear. It wasn't until 1915 that Converse began making athletic shoes for tennis. A few years later, Converse introduced the All-Star basketball shoe.

A basketball player named Charles H. "Chuck" Taylor came to work for Converse and became the ambassador of the shoe, while adding his signature to the All Star patch. The Chuck Taylor All Star basketball shoe only came in black, until Converse released a white version in 1947.

Now, Converse shoes are made with all different colors and materials, including leather, suede, vinyl, and hemp, besides canvas. They also offer high-tops, low-cuts and even knee-high styles. Converse is also known for the popular "The Weapon" basketball shoe.